5-Minute Homemade Chili Sauce: Easy, Spicy & Sweet Condiment Recipe

Versatile Homemade Sweet & Spicy Chili Sauce

This homemade chili sauce is the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors that will elevate your dishes to the next level. Whether you’re looking for a dipping sauce for appetizers, a glaze for grilled meats, or a flavor boost for your favorite recipes, this versatile condiment has got you covered!

Why You’ll Love This Chili Sauce Recipe

• 📌 Quick & Easy: Ready in just 5 minutes with zero cooking required!
• 📌 Pantry-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have on hand
• 📌 Versatile: Perfect for dipping, glazing, marinating, or as a cooking ingredient
• 📌 Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste preferences
• 📌 Healthier Option: No preservatives or artificial ingredients like store-bought versions

Ingredients for Homemade Chili Sauce

• 1 cup tomato sauce
• ⅓ cup brown sugar (packed)
• ¼ cup white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt (optional)

How to Make the Best Chili Sauce at Home

1. In a medium bowl, measure out the tomato sauce and add it first.
2. Add the brown sugar and vinegar to the tomato sauce.
3. Sprinkle in the chili powder, allspice, garlic powder, and onion powder.
4. Whisk all ingredients together thoroughly until the sugar has dissolved and everything is well combined.
5. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed – add more chili powder for heat or brown sugar for sweetness.
6. Transfer to an airtight container or glass jar for storage.

Recipe Variations and Spice Level Adjustments

The beauty of homemade chili sauce is how easily you can customize it to suit your taste preferences:

• Extra Spicy Version: Add ¼-½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce
• Smoky Chili Sauce: Include ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika
• Fresh Herb Boost: Stir in 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
• Zesty Citrus Twist: Add 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon or lime zest
• Chunky Texture: Mix in 2 tablespoons of finely diced bell peppers or onions

Creative Ways to Use Your Homemade Chili Sauce

This versatile condiment can transform ordinary meals into extraordinary culinary experiences:

• 🍗 Glaze for grilled chicken or pork – brush on during the last few minutes of cooking
• 🍤 Dipping sauce for appetizers like spring rolls, chicken tenders, or fried shrimp
• 🍔 Flavor booster for burgers and sandwiches – mix with mayonnaise for a spicy spread
• 🥗 Marinade base – combine with oil and additional seasonings
• 🍜 Stir-fry enhancer – add a spoonful to rice or noodle dishes
• 🌮 Taco night upgrade – drizzle over tacos or mix into taco meat

Storage Tips for Fresh Chili Sauce

Proper storage ensures your homemade chili sauce stays fresh and flavorful:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks
• Freezer: Portion into ice cube trays, freeze, then transfer cubes to a freezer bag for up to 3 months
• For Longer Shelf Life: Consider a water bath canning process if you want to make larger batches

Nutrition Information

17 calories per serving |
4g carbohydrates |
0g protein |
0g fat |
131mg sodium |
4g sugar

FAQs About Homemade Chili Sauce

Can I use ketchup instead of tomato sauce?
Yes! Ketchup will work as a substitute, but reduce the sugar by half since ketchup contains added sweeteners.

How can I make this chili sauce thicker?
For a thicker consistency, you can simmer the mixture over low heat for 10-15 minutes, or add 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of cold water.

Is this chili sauce the same as sriracha?
No, this is more similar to a sweet American-style chili sauce rather than sriracha, which has a fermented flavor profile and different pepper base.

Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Absolutely! One minced garlic clove can replace the powder, but the shelf life may be slightly reduced.

This quick and easy homemade chili sauce recipe proves that delicious condiments don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With just a few minutes and simple ingredients, you’ll have a versatile sauce that will enhance countless dishes!

Recipe inspired by AllRecipes